7 superfoods: what are the benefits?

1. Quinoa

Ok, so if you follow me on Twitter or Instagram – you’d have seen me mention how much I love Quinoa. When I first tried it I had ‘cous cous’ in my head (I really dislike cous cous!) – but it’s actually very different in texture and taste. Quinoa can be quite bland so needs to be seasoned and paired with something yummy to really set it off.

What are the benefits?

High in Protein

Improved digestion

Reduces the signs of ageing

Improves cardiovascular health

Contains ‘good’ carbohydrates

2. Almond milk

I’m not a fan of cow’s milk so I was overjoyed to discover almond milk. Not only is fat free and lactose free, it also has very few calories in it with huge health benefits. It’s very light and goes great with protein shakes.

What are the benefits:

Assists with weight loss

High in Calcium

25% of the recommended daily amount of Vitamin D

Great for your skin and hair due to high Vitamin C

No cholesterol or saturated fat = healthy heart

3. Spinach

There’s always been a bad stigma surrounding spinach, but it’s become one of my favourite super foods. You can eat it raw in salads or hot with a stir fry. I sometimes heat a bowl of quinoa with cherry tomatoes, feta cheese and a handful of spinach leaves – immense!

What are the benefits?

High in Iron

Full of Vitamins

Anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer antioxidants

Good for your bones and eyes (yes, eyes!)

4. Walnuts

Walnuts were never my favoured ‘nut’. Pistachio nuts are my favourite (followed closely by cashews) but walnuts have found their way on to my list. The first time I had them in a meal was around Christmas time. My starter was: warm goats cheese with apple and walnuts. I was hooked from then on. A regular lunch I have is a goat’s cheese, beetroot and walnut salad.

What are the benefits?

Cancer-fighting properties

Contains plant-based Omega-3 fats

Aids weight control

Reduces risk of heart disease

5. Beetroot

My memory of beetroot, is being at my nan’s on Boxing Day, when all of the jars of beetroot and pickled onions came out. I hated it! As I’ve grown up, I’ve discovered (like with spinach) it isn’t so bad. Fresh beetroot in a salad is a win and I would encourage anybody to try it – especially if they have been haunted by the jar beetroot. It’s also really good for you.

What are the benefits?

Lower blood pressure

It can improve oxygenation to the brain (slowing the progression of dementia)

Improved digestion due to being high in fibre

Boosts exercise and athletic

6. Lentils

I love lentils! Lentil soup is up there with my favourite soups.They are full of goodness and can make such a hearty meal that keeps you full for longer. I use red lentils to make Lebanese style lentil soup (Gordon Ramsay recipe).

What are the benefits?

High in fibre

Full of magnesium (good for your heart)

Helps stabilise blood sugar

High in iron

7. Broccoli

I had to go with a classic – and broccoli literally goes with everything. Dubbed ‘the healthiest food in the world’, it can be chopped up into pasta, rice or noodles, as a side with a roast dinner or even just with fish and potatoes.